Eight people have been arrested on suspicion of attempted murder following a multiple stabbing incident at a KFC restaurant in south-east London on Thursday afternoon.
The Metropolitan Police, ambulance service and air ambulance responded to reports of an altercation involving several people on Bromley High Street at approximately 14.15 BST. A 21-year-old man and three boys aged between 14 and 17 were transported to hospital with stab wounds. The man's condition, which was initially critical, has since improved and is no longer considered life-threatening.
The eight people in custody comprise the four injured individuals plus four additional boys aged between 14 and 17. All remain in police custody as inquiries continue.
A KFC spokesperson confirmed that a serious incident had occurred within the restaurant and that the altercation had originated there. The company stated it was cooperating with police and providing support to staff members and customers affected by the incident.
Eyewitness accounts provided varying details of the violence. One diner present at the branch reported witnessing a fight that subsequently spilled onto the street, with a man wielding a machete fleeing the scene. According to local radio reports, a witness described a "knife fight" occurring near the KFC, with multiple individuals seen carrying machetes. A nearby business owner also observed fighting that extended beyond the restaurant onto the street.
What was the police response?
Officers established an increased presence in the area following the incident. According to reports from a national broadcaster, Bromley High Street remained closed in both directions between Ringers Road and Ethelbert Road, with police maintaining the crime scene. Bus services in the area were diverted, including multiple routes, while officers remained at the location.
The Metropolitan Police said officers were working to establish the full circumstances of the incident. Detectives are treating the incident as an isolated event with no wider threat to the public.
What have local representatives said?
Peter Fortune, the MP for Bromley and Biggin Hill, acknowledged the concerns of local residents regarding safety. According to reports, he stated that local residents "would have safety concerns" and indicated he would maintain contact with police throughout the investigation.
What happens next?
Police inquiries are continuing as detectives work to establish the full circumstances of the incident. The eight individuals remain in custody as the investigation progresses.
